Doha: The South African embassy in Qatar and Sasol, the international integrated energy and chemical company, marked Mandela Day by collecting donations that were presented to Qatar Charity during a ceremony yesterday.
Employees of the embassy and Sasol Qatar donated items such as new and used clothing, toys, electronic gadgets and other non-perishable goods for the needy.
The items were collected in a dedicated ‘Tayf’ container placed in front of ‘The Gate’ mall, provided by Qatar Charity.
The donation drive is in the spirit of the inspiring work of Nelson Mandela.
While ‘Mandela Day’ is celebrated on July 18, the drive represents the spirit of doing good beyond just one day and the donation drive will last until September 22.
Officially declared by the UN in 2009, Nelson Mandela International Day has been celebrated annually in South Africa and across the globe in honour of the legendary South African peace and anti-apartheid icon.
Mandela Day aims to inspire people to take action to help change the world for the better, and in doing so build a global movement for good.
Saad Cachalia, Ambassador of South Africa, and Jack Saba, Corporate Affairs Manager at Sasol Qatar, presented the donations to Abdullah Hadi Al Dosari, Director of In-Kind Donations at Qatar Charity in a ceremony.
“Mandela Day is a time to give back to society we live in, by committing a selfless act, however small it might be.
“Through his actions, Mandela has shown us that to make a difference in the world all that’s required is fierce determination and patience,” Cachalia said.
“Madiba, as he is respectfully referred to in South Africa, is and will forever be remembered for his humility, empathy and struggle for freedom.
“We thank each and every person who contributed to the donation drive in Qatar.”
“Sasol strives to promote people-centred sustainable development of the communities in which we operate.
“Nelson Mandela’s values of community service and volunteerism are universal.
“It was natural for us to partner with Qatar Charity which works for the betterment of society in Qatar and abroad, and aid them in the wonderful work they are doing to benefit those in need.
“We are inspired by the generous philanthropic spirit of the Qatari leadership,” Saba said.
Sasol employees in South Africa mark Mandela Day by volunteering at schools, old age homes, orphanages and youth care centres.
The Peninsula
